Leaving a Mark
Not sure where all the red shield donations go once they're collected?—Heaps of places! There are so many amazing programs that The Salvation Army run that are supported through the money we donate.
One of these incredible services is 614 in Melbourne. The huge range of services run from this place are a lifeline for people in need, providing food, counselling, training and much more.
However, sometimes projects are run simply to bring hope and happiness to people who have been doing it tough. The Salvos recently completed the ‘Dare to Dream’ street art project at Westwood Place (next to 614) and stepping in to give a hand was Collingwood FC ruckman Brodie Grundy.
We chat to Brodie grundy about volunteering, art and being more than a footballer:
How did you get involved with the Salvos?
‘Community’ is a value that the Collingwood Football Club holds in high regard. It is the very essence of what Collingwood has been built upon, stemming all the way back to the 1920s around the time of the Great Depression. The Salvation Army is a great Collingwood fit for this reason—it’s about bringing people closer together. Why do you volunteer? Nowadays I see this as an opportunity for role models of the industry to connect with likeminded individuals on a project (like street art) where people from all different backgrounds can engage with each other and have a longlasting, positive impact on their environment. All the while having fun. It also provides an opportunity to connect with disengaged youths and shows people that there is more to the ‘AFL footballer’ stereotype! What did you do at 614? Brightened the place up, along with friend and professional painter Andrew Bourke...
What is the intention behind ‘Dare to Dream’? Basically to highlight the avenues for expression and freedom for young people and for them to learn new skills. Many of the people involved have had limited opportunity in life and wouldn’t have thought this type of thing would have been possible. It shows you can create your own reality.
Did you have any street art skills before getting involved in this project? Andrew Bourke has an amazing style and heart. He is like a wizard in his ability to not only manipulate letters, but do awesome realism too. Under his gaze, I’ve learnt a few things along the way, especially an eye for detail, patience and how anything can be fixed!
I have always been into art, and have been fascinated by graffiti culture since I was a young kid. I love street art as a way of expression. After moving to Melbourne and experiencing the way in which street art is embraced in the Melbourne City, the street art project presented itself as an awesome opportunity to do something funky and legal!
How have you seen this service changing lives? It certainly put a smile on some faces and it was awesome to connect with people on a subject that was more than just football.
What have been some of your best experiences while volunteering with the Salvos? Brightening up Westwood place... making it a more attractive space for people to hang out! I look forward to doing some more when I get the time!
Helping people in need can often be about bringing back hope to their lives; encouraging someone to ‘dare to dream’ is an uplifting way of saying ‘don’t give up’. The Salvation Army’s services are a lifeline for people doing it tough; they care for the people who others choose to ignore and help keep hope alive when it could easily be lost. The Bible tells us to rejoice in hope and encourages us to do good to others so that they too have hope. ‘Do not forget to do good to others. And share with them what you have. These are the sacrifices that please God’ Hebrews 13:16.
